This Sunday, February 2, 2025, Mathieu van der Poel stands on the precipice of history as he aims to secure his seventh Cyclocross World Championship title at the event held in Liévin, France. A victory would tie him with cycling legend Erik De Vlaeminck, who holds the record for the most world titles with seven wins during his illustrious career between 1966 and 1973.
Van der Poel, already celebrated for his extraordinary dominance, previously expressed intentions of possibly skipping this year's cyclocross season. "I was considered seriously not racing this winter, but the allure of matching De Vlaeminck’s record reignited my passion, making me want to compete again," Van der Poel stated, acknowledging the weight and significance of such historical achievements.
For his part, Roger De Vlaeminck, Erik’s brother, weighed in on the upcoming championship, reflecting on his brother's legacy. He explained, "If Erik had had a normal life, Mathieu would never have been able to match him. But of course you have to take care of yourself." This comment not only honors Erik's unparalleled talent but also hints at the pressures and challenges modern athletes face.
Wout van Aert's surprise entry as Van der Poel's chief rival adds another layer of intrigue to the championship. Roger De Vlaeminck admitted he was excited about the potential duel, asserting, "I'm a fan of Mathieu. He's a great rider, but we need to have a duel on Sunday. It should be spectacular, and with Van Aert competing, it can only add to the event’s drama." The anticipation builds as spectators and fans expect this head-to-head showdown will showcase the best of what cyclocross has to offer.
The contrasting styles and admirable sportsmanship suggest not just a race but also storytelling between generations of cyclocross athletes. While Van der Poel’s athletic feats are remarkable—witnessed through his winning spree of seven races this season—it's impossible to ignore the shadows cast by Erik De Vlaeminck's storied past. Roger remarked, "Without Van Aert, I would not have watched on Sunday. Or no, I would have," implying the necessity of strong competition to add flavor to races of such magnitude.
Erik De Vlaeminck himself, who passed away from Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases in 2016, remains a benchmark for aspiring cyclists. Roger recounted Erik's competitive spirit during their years on the circuit, saying, "He was good at everything...he could easily navigate challenges where others failed." His words continue to resonate, underscoring the deep respect within the cycling community for legends who paved the way for present-day athletes.
And it appears history inspires Van der Poel. By expressing interest not just in competing but also making his own mark, he demonstates the desire to not merely imitate but also innovate as he engages with the legacy of past champions. "It’s nice to be compared to Erik, but I would have liked to write my own story," he reflects. This perspective emphasizes his recognition of the sport’s rich history and his role within it.
With the eyes of many upon them, the clock counts down to their showdown scheduled for 15:00 local time. Fans and enthusiasts alike are eager to see if Van der Poel will emerge triumphant, claiming what would be considered the apex of cyclocross crowns. His well-established dominance during the season and the historical backdrop provide fertile ground for high expectations.
Ahead lies only the course of destiny, littered with challenges as physical as they are mental. Van der Poel acknowledges, "I enjoy still the cross, but everything else costs much energy," hinting at the toll professional racing exacts on competitors. Yet, the tantalizing carrot of breaking records and establishing oneself among the greats seems to fuel him.
With both Van der Poel and van Aert entering the fray as fierce competitors, spectators can anticipate nothing less than drama, glory, and possibly history at the Cyclocross World Championships this Sunday. Which athlete will seize the moment and write their legacy anew? This championship is set to provide unforgettable memories, regardless of the outcome.